Cell Structure and Dynamics in the Nematode Caenorhabditis Elegans

About this Research Topic

Background

The study of cell structure and dynamics is a pivotal area in cell biology, as it underpins essential cellular processes such as migration, division, and morphogenesis. Misregulation in these processes is often linked to cancer progression and various diseases, highlighting the importance of understanding the underlying mechanisms. These processes are governed by intricate systems involving the cytoskeleton, membranes, organelles, and their interactions with substrates, soluble factors, and other cells. Despite significant advancements, challenges remain, particularly in analyzing these dynamics in vivo within vertebrates. In vitro cell cultures, while useful for microscopic studies, often fail to replicate the complex three-dimensional environments found in living organisms. Consequently, model organisms like Caenorhabditis elegans have become invaluable for exploring these conserved cellular mechanisms. C. elegans, with its short life cycle, transparency, and genetic tractability, offers a unique opportunity to study cell structure and dynamics in a living organism, providing insights that are often applicable to other species.

This Research Topic aims to disseminate the latest findings on cell structure and dynamics using Caenorhabditis elegans as a model organism. The primary objective is to explore the regulatory mechanisms governing these processes and to understand how they are conserved across different species. Key questions include how cytoskeletal proteins function and are regulated, how cells migrate and divide, and how morphogenesis is orchestrated. Additionally, the research seeks to investigate cell-cell and cell-substrate interactions, cell contractility, mechanosensing, and the implications of these processes in disease models. By addressing these questions, the research aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of cellular dynamics and their broader biological significance.

To gather further insights in the regulation of cell structure and dynamics using C. elegans, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:
- Function and regulation of cytoskeletal proteins
- Dynamic cell behaviors such as cell migration and cell division
- Morphogenesis
- Cell-cell and cell-substrate interactions
- Cell contractility and mechanosensing
- Disease models involving abnormalities in the structure and dynamics of cells and tissues
- New methodologies to study cell structure and dynamics.

Keywords: C. Elegans, Model System, Caenorhabditis Elegans, cell adhesion, cell migration, cell structure, cell dynamics, morphogenesis, cell division

Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.

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